Its Official: Divx coming to PS3

DivX, Inc. today announced that DivX video technology will be integrated into PLAYSTATION 3. The popular computer entertainment system will be added to the ecosystem of devices that currently support DivX video playback.

"Our technology will expand the multimedia functionality of PS3 by enabling users to enjoy access to the broad library of content in the DivX digital media format."

Current PS3 end users will be able to add DivX functionality to their systems via a separate system software update at a forthcoming date.

Can DivX also play Xvid videos or only Divx encoded videos? Because most AVI files i.e. anime etc. are usually encoded using Xvid and they work on my HDD DivX/Xvid Player, so I'm wondering if they would work straight away on my PS3?

Very cool feature for PS3, now it is a question of when this will be integrated into a firmware...

Well lets see how long it takes for them to release the software or end the testing phase. I heard the 360 is releasing it in the fall/winter update so i expect them to get it ready soon although by the previous rumors it might be releases along with home.

yeah, I think they will utilize it with home, but I think they'll release it earlier to test it out and make sure it's all set. less pressure on Home launch. But seriously, can anyone say Media center OWNAGE? Seriously, the PS3 can do almost everything now! And note: I'm not downplaying the xbox. Yes the 360 is awesome, but I'm just talking about the PS3 right now... y'know... staying on point?

So, not being the most savvy chap when it comes to technology in its various forms, can anyone tell me what the advantage of DivX coming to my PS3 will be? What new features and benefits should I be able to enjoy?

Its a file format that is previously unsupported, but the most widely used format around. This is the main file type used for filesharing movies and tv shows. It will mean you can pull them off your pc and put them on a disc or stick to play on your ps3. Or stream over wifi without the need for added software or codecs :)